At Fountaindale School, the safety, dignity and wellbeing of our pupils are at the heart of all moving and handling practices. Moving and handling is defined as:

"The transporting or supporting of a load (including the lifting, putting down, pushing, pulling, carrying or moving thereof) by hand or bodily force."

Many of our pupils require support with mobility, transfers, positioning or personal care. We are committed to ensuring that these activities are carried out safely, consistently and in a way that promotes pupil comfort, independence and dignity.

All staff who are responsible for moving and handling pupils receive accredited moving and handling training before undertaking any moving and handling tasks. Staff also complete annual refresher training to ensure their knowledge and skills remain up to date and reflect current best practice.

Every pupil who requires moving and handling support has an individual Moving and Handling Risk Assessment. Where appropriate, this is supported by a detailed Safe System of Work (SSOW), outlining the specific equipment, techniques and staffing requirements needed to ensure safe practice. These documents must be read and followed by all staff before any moving and handling activities are undertaken.

To support high standards across the school, Fountaindale has two designated Moving and Handling Leads. They play a key role in:

• Delivering and coordinating staff training
• Monitoring and quality assuring moving and handling practice
• Supporting staff with advice and guidance
• Reviewing risk assessments and safe systems of work
• Ensuring equipment is used correctly and safely
• Promoting a culture of safe, person-centred practice

By working closely with pupils, families, therapists and healthcare professionals, we ensure that moving and handling arrangements are tailored to each individual's needs while maintaining the highest standards of safety and care.